Honourable senators, my question is directed to Senator Gold.

Sadly, Canada’s oldest corporation, the Hudson’s Bay Company, is facing liquidation and creditor protection proceedings as it closes its operations. The company possesses a vital collection of historical documents and artefacts, which it is preparing to auction off as part of these proceedings. The reported items include a foundational document — the original royal charter issued by the previous King Charles, Charles II, in 1670, granting the company vast trading rights and authority over much of what would become Canada. The charter is regarded as one of the most important documents in Canadian history. Other significant items include Indigenous beadwork, tools, carvings and ceremonial objects, fur trade memorabilia, paper documents, artwork and many others — possibly 4,400 items.

In April, an Ontario court gave the company permission to move forward with a sales process, although the company must return to court at a later date to detail exactly which items it wants to sell and how the process will unfold. There is significant concern from historians and Indigenous groups that these items could end up in private hands, potentially removing them from public access and oversight.

Is the Government of Canada taking specific actions to ensure that these invaluable pieces of Canadian and Indigenous heritage are preserved and remain accessible? What actions have been taken and with what outcomes? Thank you.

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs has requested a halt to any auction because it believes the collection includes items of profound cultural, spiritual and historical significance to First Nations people. What measures, if any, are you aware of or are being implemented to ensure that Indigenous communities are actively involved in the decision-making process regarding the future of the cultural heritage items included in the Hudson’s Bay auction? Thank you.